Zidane prepares surprise France changes against Belgium

Zinedine Zidane could give two France players their first senior opportunities when Belgium return to the Stade de France on Monday. Goalkeeper Guillaume Restes is in line for his first cap, while defender Leny Yoro may make his debut after remaining unused during the opening matches of Zidane’s first camp.

The possibility comes as France prepare for their fourth game in 11 days. Zidane has already rotated heavily during the camp, keeping only goalkeeper Mike Maignan and defender Maxence Lacroix in the starting line-up between the victories in Turkey and Belgium. France also drew with Italy, leaving the new coach with two wins and one draw from his first three matches.

Maignan remains France’s established first-choice goalkeeper, but Restes could take his place as Zidane manages the workload across the squad. The coach has indicated that further changes are expected, while stressing that the team must remain competitive against Belgium.

Yoro’s opportunity is linked to the centre-back options available for the rematch. Dayot Upamecano is suspended, leaving Lacroix and Jérémy Jacquet as the established specialists alongside the Manchester United defender. Zidane must therefore decide whether to keep the first two together or introduce Yoro for the first time.